Let’s celebrate who he is and all he does.
I can think of no better way to pay tribute to Chris Savage than to write a few words for him — here, on the blog he created and contributes to almost every single day of the year.
I owe a lot to Chris. So do the countless Michiganders he stands up for, in so many ways.
In my case, Chris gave me a voice I would not have if it weren’t for Eclectablog. By inviting me on as a contributor last year, he elevated my activism by providing a platform where many, many more people could hear what I had to say. Along the way, I have learned so much from Chris, and not just about blogging. I am a stronger, smarter person for knowing him.
What he has done with Eclectablog is nothing short of spectacular. He’s turned a state blog into a respected national presence. He shines a light on issues that would otherwise go unnoticed, like his recent and impressive reporting on the EAA. He made the country sit up and take notice of Michigan’s Right to Work (For Less) fight, too, with a view from the battleground that was unparalleled. His work is consistently excellent — and frequently entertaining, thanks to his keen wit.
But he goes beyond the blog, practicing what he preaches as an active community organizer, something he’s done for years and shows no signs of letting up. Chris is a visible presence in Washtenew County and beyond, supporting candidates and causes that make Michigan — and the country — a better place to live. He’s one of the people who gets things done that can drive positive change.
And in every way, he’s one of the good guys. They just don’t come any better or more loyal than Chris. He’s got a huge heart, and I hope he won’t mind my saying he’s become something of a big brother to me. I know he’s always got my back. In this world, how many people can any of us truly say that about?
I hope you’ll join me in raising a glass to Chris today, whether you tweet him, send a Facebook message, leave a comment here or send him an email. He does so much for so many every day of the year.
It’s payback time. Let’s make his birthday the best one yet.
[Photo by Anne Savage]
